Many individuals own pianos. Though we love the sound of the instrument, the fact
remains that for the most part pianos are a large piece of furniture that needs special care when moving. There are basically three different types of piano: Grand, upright and electric. However, they can be subdivided from heaviest to lightest as Keyboards, Digital pianos, Spinet pianos, Console pianos, Studio pianos, Upright pianos, Grand pianos. Each has their own special need when it comes to moving. According to Pianotels.com “Although you can move a piano on its side or back when moving, it's not suggested to keep it that way for any longer than you need to. So keep your pianos upright if you can, especially when transporting it. You basically need a four-wheel dolly to move a standard piano. This is the same type of dolly used to move dressers, wall units, chest freezers, and the like.
PREPARING YOUR PIANO FOR A MOVE
Prior to moving your piano, it should be covered with moving blankets which is then
secured with moving cords. It is also a good idea to use packing desiccants (defined as
hygroscopic substance used as a drying agent) inside your piano. This is especially needed in
areas where there is excessive humidity and used in order to avoid moisture which can cause
warping or cracking.
COST OF MOVING A PIANO
The cost of moving a piano is dependent on their weight, size, the moving distance and
whether the mover needs to navigate any obstacles such as stairs to move it out of and/or into your home.
Weight of Piano - Spinet pianos are less than 40 inches tall and weigh about 300-400 lbs.; Upright pianos weigh between 500 and 800 lbs.; and Grand pianos can weigh anywhere from 600 to 1200 lbs.
Moving Distance - A general rule of thumb is “the longer the distance, the higher the moving cost.” Basically, one needs to account for the extra time and cost of gas in order to calculate a long-distance move.
Navigating the Move - Movers generally take into consideration any obstacles that may cause difficulties when it comes to moving a large item such as a piano. Stairs are the biggest challenge they face. Not only is it more difficult to move up and down stairs, but there is also a certain risk involved for both the mover and the item being moved. It will probably take two or three persons to move a piano and each will need to be paid for their service. That and the special equipment that is need will incur an extra fee.
Additional Obstacles - Moving costs can be increased with any of the following obstacles to the move:
The type of terrain, such as hilly path or else a grass, brick, or gravel walkway between the entrance to your dwelling and the moving vehicle
tight spaces/sharp turns
spiral staircases
narrow doorways
After your move, it is a good idea to have your piano tuned, since moving can disturb the
delicate balance of a fine tune.
A special word about electronic pianos: be certain that you cover the keyboard and that
nothing is laid on top of it while moving.
Call Missy Donaghy with Interiors for Seniors for a FREE consultation 321-279-3301.